European Car Of The Year Set For Launch In New Zealand

The European Car of the Year, the all-new Holden Astra, will be launched in New Zealand early in the New Year.

The stunning new model will introduce European inspired style and sophistication together with premium interior appointments, alongside performance which complements its dynamic aesthetics.

“We anticipate the European Car of the Year 2016 to make a real statement when it launches locally in February,” said the Managing Director of Holden New Zealand, Kristian Aquilina.

“This new model illustrates Holden’s commitment to Kiwi motorists to source the very best products from the General Motors new model portfolio and introduce them into our market.

“We have high expectations Astra will set the standard in the small car segment as it offers dynamic appeal together with undeniable European flair.”

To become European Car of the Year, the Astra beat finalists including BMW 7 Series, Audi A4, Volvo XC90, Jaguar XE, Mazda MX-5 and Skoda Superb.

“The fact the new Astra was judged overall COTY winner, especially when taking the opposition into account, speaks volumes for the new model and it demonstrates it has the pedigree to compete against the very best the world has to offer,” said Mr Aquilina.

The vehicle’s strong technology package, engaging performance as well as expressive European styling both inside and out contributed to the result.

Superior Ride and handling, working in unison with powerful and efficient turbocharged engines, helps deliver a driving experience which holds particular appeal for motoring enthusiasts.

“The all-new Astra is unashamedly a premium sports hatch with a focus on style, technology, quality and performance,” said Mr Aquilina.

“Added to this is a real focus on class leading Infotainment, including Apple CarPlay/Android Auto standard across the range, as well as availability of Advanced Active Safety featuring Lane Keep Assist, Automatic Emergency Braking and Forward Collision Alert.”

An all-new lightweight architecture and choice of two new turbo powertrains furthered the overall appeal of the new model.

The five-door hatch will debut with a range of three new trim levels, consisting of an entry R specification, a more powerful and tech-laden RS and a range topping RS-V.

There will be two powerful and efficient engines available for new Astra, a 1.4L Ecotec Turbo on the entry model Astra R coupled with a choice of six-speed Manual or Auto transmissions (110kW / 240Nm on auto, 245Nm with manual), or a more powerful 1.6L Ecotec Turbo available on Astra RS and Astra RS-V, delivering 147kW / 300Nm.

Pricing for the New Zealand Astra range will be released before the end of November with the new model arriving in Holden dealerships around the country from mid-February.  The five-door hatch will be sold alongside the Holden Astra VXR coupe.

“We’re incredibly excited to have the all-new Astra scheduled to arrive in New Zealand early in 2017, it will be a late Christmas present of sorts,” said Mr Aquilina.

“We couldn’t ask for a better way to get the New Year off to a great start and can’t wait to introduce Kiwi motorists to this incredible new model.”